###### Retrieval Step 3 or 5 of [[💡 The IFS Process]] Previous Step: [[💡 Witnessing]] or [[💡 Unburdening]] Ask the part if they’re ready to leave the past and come to the present, or if there's somewhere else they want to go — anywhere at all.[^1] If they don’t want to leave yet, don’t take them,[^2] just ask them why and try to meet their needs. If they do feel ready to go, take them there. Take your time. Once there, they can have an [[💡 Unburdening]] if they haven't already. If they've already been unburdened, the next step is [[💡 Integrate a Part]]. > [!FAQ]- What if the part doesn't want to leave people behind? > If the part is afraid of leaving siblings behind in memories, you can take them with you. If they're worried about parents or caretakers, negotiate. Let these parts get to know you for a while, they'll usually be ready to leave after. Other times, talk to these parts and remind them that parents have their own path and it isn't their job to take care of their parents. Sometimes this takes several sessions.[^3] [^1]: [[📖 ✅ IFS Online Circle]] Month 3: Working with Exiles & The Trauma Behind the Rage - Month 3 with Richard Schwartz [^2]:[[📖 ✅ IFS Online Circle]] Month 6 - The Body & the Automation Nervous System & Putting it All Together - Month 6 with Pam Krause